Structure-Activity Relationships of Hafnium Dioxide Nanoparticles for Cancer Radiotherapy and Imaging

Nanoparticles made from hafnium dioxide (hafnia; HfO2) have emerged as a potential enhancer of cancer radiation therapy. Such nanoparticles allow for reduced doses of radiation to be used on tumors, sparing healthy tissue from side effects without reducing its anti-cancer effects. However, despite their potential, it is not yet known how different nanoparticle properties, such as size and shape, effect their efficacy or risk of side effects. This project thus aims to gain an understanding of the relationship between nanoparticle properties and their biological effects. Several different types of HfO2 nanoparticles will be created, examined, and carefully compared regarding their toxicity and performance under medical X-Rays. Such information will be crucial to the development, regulation, and clinical trials/applications of future nanomedicines.

Faculty Supervisor:

Mark Servos;Xu Zhang

Student:

Partner:

Grand River Hospital

Discipline:

Physics

Sector:

Health and Related Sciences & Technology; Professional, scientific and technical services

University:

University of Waterloo

Program: